This spring, I had the opportunity to combine two things I’m passionate about: interviewing people/featuring writing and reproductive justice.
Every year, abortion funds across the country hold Fund-a-Thon events to raise money and raise awareness about barriers to access. And wow, are they creative. Official events included virtual baking demonstrations, drag shows, and talent contests. Individual funders sold crafts and even created a reproductive justice-themed crossword puzzle pack. It was a joy to talk to fellow volunteers from across the country and hear about their successes, challenges, and innovation.
Background
What is an abortion fund? Quite simply: abortion funds provide financial assistance to people who need abortions and cannot afford the full cost. (I’ve volunteered with our local fund, Women’s Medical Fund of Wisconsin, since 2018.) But beyond that, fund volunteers, staff, and our many supporters are also dedicated to tearing down barriers to access and shift the culture around abortion from shame and stigma to community and compassion.
Wendy Hathaway 